Maybe I'm having a quarter life crisis, but I want to learn some DIY car maintenance. Fortunately, I'm in a position where my family really could get by with one car, and my partner's old car, a 6th gen Ford Fiesta, mostly sits unused.
I figure that this might be the best opportunity for me to learn some new skills. I have to force myself to take occasional errands in this car just so it doesn't rot in the driveway, so I'm pretty sure I can take my sweet time with any project I start on it. I'd like to think I have some mechanical aptitude and have half a clue on how basic systems work on a car. I already do some really basic stuff - air filters, wiper blades, windshield washer fluid.
What are some basic projects that I should look into? What are some essential tools to have on hand that may not be too obvious?
If the shocks and struts are worn out, they're not too hard to replace, as long as the bolts aren't rusted solid. You might need a long wrench handle (breaker bar), an electric impact driver, penetrating oil, and/or a propane torch to get the bolts unstuck. You'll need to get an alignment after you have everything put back together.
The trickiest part is using spring compressors, because if they slip off, the spring can launch suspension parts with a lot of force. I always keep the strut horizontal when compressing the spring, with nothing important in the line of fire. You can borrow spring compressors from most auto parts stores if you put down a deposit.